What is I-O?

Industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology is the scientific study of working and the application of that science to workplace issues facing individuals, teams, and organizations.
The scientific method is applied to investigate issues of critical relevance to individuals, businesses, and society.

By working with these partners, who act as primary drivers of globalization, the Global Compact can help ensure that markets, commerce, technology and finance advance in ways that benefit economies and societies everywhere.
You (and your organization) can help make our world better. Businesses, civil society organizations, business associations, labour organizations, academic institutions and cities are all invited to join us in shaping a sustainable future. Whether you are new to corporate sustainability or more seasoned in such efforts, there is a place for you in the United Nations Global Compact!

Why Should Businesses Join?

The United Nations Global Compact provides a universal language for corporate responsibility and provides a framework to guide all businesses regardless of size, complexity or location.

“Responsible business practices, combined with collaboration and innovation, can bring about powerful change in markets and societies – proving that principles and profits go hand in hand.”

The Global Compact currently has over 8,000 member organizations from across the world and more companies are joining every year.

It’s good for business. Corporate and organizational success requires stable economies and healthy, skilled and educated workers, among other factors. Additionally, sustainable companies experience increased brand trust and investor support. In a recent survey of Global Compact CEOs, 93% say sustainability is important to the future success of their business and 80% say it is a route to competitive advantage in their industry (UN Global Compact / Accenture CEO Study).

It’s good for society – and businesses really can make a difference. Companies offer fresh ideas and scalable solutions to society’s challenges – exactly what we need to create a better world. More than 8,000 business participants and 4,000 non-business participants in the United Nations Global Compact are already changing the world. They’re helping alleviate extreme poverty, address labour issues, reduce environmental risks around the globe, and more.

Joining this Global Compact allows your organization to align with SIOP’s recent efforts to define I-O psychology’s contribution to society. By connecting your organization’s goals and practices to the Global Compact principles, future I-O Psychologists are exposed to global issues that are at the intersection of business and society.

Sample Process

We recognize that each organization is different and will take a different approach to gaining support for Global Compact Participation. The Global Compact application guidelines request the letter come from the “highest level of authority” (which can be interpreted in a number of ways) but is typically the president or CEO of the organization.

Gain approval with other relevant stakeholders such as legal and public relations.

Draft and solicit feedback on the application/commitment letter

Have the final letter co-signed by the organization’s Chief Executive or equivalent.

Complete the online application and uploaded the letter.

Sample Materials

This tool kit includes all of the materials used by Purdue University to join the Global Compact. These can be used as templates, and programs are welcome to leverage any parts, verbatim, in any way seen fit.